Lusaka, Jul 22 (IANS): Zambia has withdrawn from hosting the 2019 Under-23 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, the country's football governing body said, citing economic reasons.
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) said it decided to withdraw after thorough consultations with the sports ministry, reports Xinhua news agency.
"After these consultations with the government, it has been concluded that the country is not in a position to host the tournament due to the current economic climate," it said in a statement.
The football governing body has since thanked the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for having given it the opportunity to host the event.